Stackable splitters

ABSTRACT

Examples of optical splitter systems, methods and modules enable the stacking and interconnecting of one or more optical splitter modules. One example of a splitter module has a housing and one or more connection members for connecting to adjacent instances of like splitter modules. The housing includes a plurality of cable ports providing access to an optical splitter storage area. Each connection member includes a tab and a slot, the tab configured to slidingly engage with the slot of an adjacent connection member. Sliding engagement of adjacent instances of splitter modules can form a stack of splitter modules along a stacking axis. In some cases a splitter module includes a latching mechanism to removably engage an adjacent splitter module. The latching mechanism can restrict sliding engagement and thus decoupling of the adjacent splitter modules.

PRIORITY

This application is a national stage application under 35 U.S.C. 371 ofInternational Patent Application Serial No. PCT/US2017/013535, entitled“Stackable Splitters,” filed Jan. 13, 2017, which claims priority toU.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/278,867, filed Jan. 14, 2016,the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference in itsentirety.

FIELD

This disclosure generally relates to communications networks andcomponents, and more particularly relates to optical splitters.

BACKGROUND

Splitter modules are a known component of telecommunications networks.In a typical installation, multiple splitter modules are installed in atelecommunications enclosure within a separate housing or framework. Thehousing or framework typically includes a mounting structure for holdingthe splitter modules. Various splitter configurations can requiredifferent numbers and types of mounting structures due to differences inthe design of the modules. The overall cost of a telecommunicationsenclosure can thus rise due to the need for elaborate, complex splitterhousings and mounting hardware tailored to different module designs.

SUMMARY

Examples of optical splitter modules and systems and methods aredescribed for arranging splitter modules without traditional mountinghardware. As will be discussed, splitter module implementations mayinclude mounting features that allow individual splitter modules to beinterconnected without additional hardware. In some cases the mountingfeatures allow splitter modules to be interconnected in a stackconfiguration, with each successive module being connected to anadjacent module without the need for an external frame or support.Stacking and mounting the individual splitter modules to each other canin some cases provide a rapid and easily deployable mounting system inwhich additional hardware, such as external mounting frameworks, areunneeded.

Some examples of various aspects, implementations, and features ofstackable splitter modules, module arrangements, and methods forarranging splitter modules will now be described.

One general aspect includes a cable splitter module. The cable splittermodule includes a housing and a connection member. The housing has alength extending along a longitudinal axis of the housing, a widthextending transverse to the longitudinal axis along a width axis, and astacking axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and to thewidth axis. The housing includes an optical splitter storage area and aplurality of cable ports providing access to the optical splitterstorage area for a plurality of optical fiber cables. The housing alsoincludes a first end wall at a first end of the housing and a second endwall at a second end of the housing opposite the first end of thehousing. The housing also includes a first side wall at a first side ofthe housing and a second side wall at a second side of the housingopposite the first side of the housing.

The cable splitter module includes the connection member at the firstside of the housing. The connection member includes a rigid wall memberhaving a first end and a second end, the second end including a tabprojecting from the wall member. The connection member also includes aslot extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of thehousing.

The connection member is configured to connect to an adjacent instanceof the connection member on an adjacent cable splitter module. The tabof the connection member is configured to slidingly engage with the slotof an adjacent connection member in a first connection configurationthat restricts relative movement of the cable splitter module and theadjacent cable splitter module along the stacking axis. The slot of theconnection member is configured to slidingly engage with the tab of theadjacent connection member in a second connection configuration thatrestricts relative movement of the cable splitter module and theadjacent cable splitter module along the stacking axis. The cablesplitter module is thus connectable to an adjacent instance of the cablesplitter module to form a stack of connected cable splitter modulesalong the stacking axis.

Implementations of the cable splitter module may also include one ormore of the following features. For example, the connection member ofthe cable splitter module may be a first side connection member and thecable splitter module may further include a second side connectionmember at the second side of the housing opposite from the first sideconnection member. The second side connection member includes a rigidwall member having a first end and a second end including a tabprojecting from the wall member. The second side connection member alsoincludes a slot extending substantially parallel to the longitudinalaxis of the housing. The second side connection member is configured toconnect to an adjacent instance of the second side connection member onan adjacent cable splitter module. The tab of the second side connectionmember is configured to slidingly engage with the slot of an adjacentsecond side connection member in the first connection configuration torestrict relative movement along the stacking axis. The slot of thesecond side connection member is configured to slidingly engage with thetab of an adjacent second side connection member in the secondconnection configuration to restrict relative movement along thestacking axis.

Implementations of the cable splitter module may also include one ormore of the following features. The cable splitter module may beconfigured such that sliding engagement of the first side connectionmembers and the second side connection members restricts side-to-sidemovement of the cable splitter module and the adjacent cable splittermodule in a direction of the width axis. The first and second sideconnection members may each include an outer wall member that forms partof the respective slot, the outer wall member including a notchconfigured to selectively receive the tab of a respective adjacentconnection member. The first side connection member and the second sideconnection member can form a first connection member pair. The cablesplitter module may further including a second connection member pairincluding another first side connection member and another second sideconnection member. The first end of the rigid wall member of theconnection member may be configured to mate with the second end of therigid wall member of an adjacent connection member. The first end of therigid wall member of the adjacent connection member may be configured tomate with the second end of the rigid wall member of the connectionmember. Mating of the ends of the rigid wall members may support thestacking of the cable splitter module and an adjacent cable splittermodule along the stacking axis.

Implementations of the splitter module may also include one or more ofthe following features. The cable splitter module may include a latchingmechanism at the first end of the housing. An adjacent cable splittermodule may have a corresponding adjacent instance of the latchingmechanism. The latching mechanism may be configured to removably engagean adjacent latching mechanism in one of the first connectionconfiguration and the second connection configuration. The latchingmechanism may be configured to removably engage an adjacent latchingmechanism in the other of the first connection configuration and thesecond connection configuration. The cable splitter module may also beconfigured such that engagement of the respective latching mechanismsstops sliding disengagement of the cable splitter module and theadjacent cable splitter module. The cable splitter module can alsoinclude a locking mechanism for selectively locking the latchingmechanism to prevent disengagement of the cable splitter module from anadjacent cable splitter module.

Implementations of the splitter module may also include one or more ofthe following features. The cable splitter module may include an opticalsplitter assembly positioned within the optical splitter storage area,and a plurality of fiber leads connected to the optical splitterassembly, where each of the cable ports provides access to one of thefiber leads. The cable splitter module may include a plurality of cableassemblies. Each cable assembly is connected to one of the fiber leads.Each cable assembly extends outside the housing through one of the cableports. Each cable assembly is terminated outside the housing by anoptical fiber connection member. The cable splitter module may include aplurality of cable adapters mounted within the plurality of cable ports.Each of the fiber leads may be terminated inside the housing by anoptical fiber connection member configured to connect with one of thecable adapters.

Another general aspect includes an optical splitter stacking system. Theoptical splitter stacking system may include an optical splitterhousing, which includes a bottom planar wall, a top planar wall, and anoptical splitter storage area located between the bottom planar wall andthe top planar wall. The optical splitter housing includes a pluralityof connection members including a linear arrangement of first sideconnection members and a linear arrangement of second side connectionmembers. The housing has a first side wall that includes the lineararrangement of first side connection members and a second side wall thatincludes the linear arrangement of second side connection members. Theoptical splitter housing includes a third side wall including a cableport providing access to the optical splitter storage area and a fourthside wall including a plurality of cable ports providing access to theoptical splitter storage area. The optical splitter stacking systemincludes a latching mechanism at the third side wall.

The first and second side connection members each include a rigid wallmember having a first end and a second end, the first end at leastpartially defining a slot extending along a portion of the correspondingfirst side wall or the second side wall, and the second end including atab projecting from the rigid wall member. The connection members areconfigured to slidingly engage with corresponding connection members onan additional instance of the optical splitter housing, to form astacked arrangement of optical splitter housings. The latching mechanismis configured to removably engage an additional instance of the latchingmechanism on an additional instance of the optical splitter housing toselectively stop sliding disengagement of the optical splitter housingfrom an additional instance of the optical splitter housing.

Implementations of the optical splitter stacking system may also includeone or more of the following features. The latching mechanism mayinclude a latch tab and a strike tab spaced apart from the latch tab.The latch tab may be configured to slidingly and removably engage thestrike tab on a corresponding additional latching mechanism in a firstconnection configuration. The strike tab may be configured to slidinglyand removably engage the latch tab on an additional latching mechanismin a second connection configuration. The latch tab may include aprotrusion that engages the strike tab of an additional latchingmechanism. The latch tab may include a flexible material that enablesdeflection of the latch tab and the protrusion relative to the striketab of an additional latching mechanism. Each of the connection membersmay include an outer wall member that forms part of the respective slot,the outer wall member including a notch configured to receive the tab ofa respective additional connection member of the additional opticalsplitter housing.

Optical splitter stacking system implementations may also include one ormore of the following features. The first end of the rigid wall memberof each connection member may be configured to mate with a second end ofa rigid wall member of an additional connection member on an additionaloptical splitter housing. The first end of the rigid wall member of theadditional connection member may be configured to mate with the secondend of the rigid wall member of each connection member. Mating of theends of the rigid wall members can support the stacking of the cablesplitter module and the additional cable splitter module along thestacking axis.

Implementations of the splitter stacking system may also include one ormore of the following features. The optical splitter stacking system mayinclude an optical splitter assembly positioned within the opticalsplitter storage area. A plurality of fiber leads may be connected tothe optical splitter assembly. A plurality of cable assemblies may beincluded. Each cable assembly may be connected to one of the fiberleads. Each cable assembly may extend outside the housing through one ofthe cable ports. Each cable assembly may be terminated outside thehousing by an optical fiber connection member. The optical splitterstacking system can include a plurality of cable adapters mounted withinthe plurality of cable ports for connecting fiber leads of an opticalsplitter assembly inside the housing.

Another general aspect includes a method for arranging optical splittermodules. The method includes positioning a first optical splitter modulenext to a second optical splitter module. Each of the first and secondoptical splitter modules includes an enclosure housing an opticalsplitter assembly. Each of the first and second optical splitter modulesalso includes a plurality of connection members including a lineararrangement of first side connection members located along a first sideof the enclosure and a linear arrangement of second side connectionmembers located along a second side of the enclosure. Each of the firstand second optical splitter modules includes a plurality of cable portsproviding access to the optical splitter assembly for a plurality ofoptical fiber cables.

The method includes slidingly engaging the first optical splitter modulewith the second optical splitter module. Slidingly engaging the firstoptical splitter module with the second optical splitter module includesinserting a tab on each connection member on the first optical splittermodule into a slot of each connection member on the second opticalsplitter module. Slidingly engaging the first optical splitter modulewith the second optical splitter module includes sliding each tab withineach respect slot, the sliding occurring parallel to the lineararrangements of first side and second side connection members, therebysliding the first and second optical splitter modules together into astacked arrangement. The method also includes latching the first opticalsplitter module to the second optical splitter module to selectivelyprevent the optical splitter modules from sliding apart. Latchingincludes engaging a single latch tab on the first optical splittermodule with a single strike tab on the second optical splitter module.

Implementations of the method for arranging optical splitter modules mayinclude one or more of the following features. For example, the methodcan include the locking engagement of the single latch tab and thesingle strike tab to lock the first and second optical splitter modulestogether in the stacked arrangement.

This summary is an overview of some of the teachings of the presentapplication and is not intended to be an exclusive or exhaustivetreatment of the present subject matter. Further details are found inthe detailed description and appended claims. Other aspects will beapparent to persons skilled in the art upon reading and understandingthe following detailed description and viewing the drawings that form apart thereof, each of which is not to be taken in a limiting sense. Thescope herein is defined by the appended claims and their legalequivalents.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Aspects may be more completely understood in connection with thefollowing drawings.

FIG. 1A is a first perspective view of an embodiment of a splittermodule.

FIG. 1B is a second perspective view of the splitter module of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2 is a top view of the interior of the splitter module of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a stack of multiple instances of thesplitter module of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 4 is a first partial perspective view of an embodiment of asplitter module illustrating a connection member.

FIG. 5 is a second partial perspective view of the splitter module ofFIG. 4.

FIG. 6A-6C are schematic side views of some steps for connectingadjacent splitter modules in an embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of an embodiment of a splittermodule illustrating a latching mechanism.

FIGS. 8A-8C are cross-sectional side views of some steps for latchingadjacent splitter modules in an embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a top view of an embodiment of a splitter module base.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a splitter moduleenclosing system.

FIG. 11 is a top view of an embodiment of a hardened splitter module.

FIG. 12 is a top view of an embodiment of a splitter module with pigtailconnectors.

FIG. 13 is a top view of an embodiment of a hardened splitter modulewith pigtail connectors.

FIG. 14 is a side view of an embodiment of a lockable splitter module.

While embodiments are susceptible to various modifications andalternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of exampleand drawings, and will be described in detail. It should be understood,however, that the scope herein is not limited to the particularembodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to covermodifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spiritand scope herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The embodiments described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or tolimit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the followingdetailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and describedso that others skilled in the art can appreciate and understand theprinciples and practices.

All publications and patents mentioned herein are hereby incorporatedherein by reference. The publications and patents disclosed herein areprovided solely for their disclosure. Nothing herein is to be construedas an admission that the inventors are not entitled to antedate anypublication and/or patent, including any publication and/or patent citedherein.

Many existing systems for mounting optical splitter modules (e.g.,optical splitter cassettes) provide a fixed framework or brackets forsupport, such as a rack structure designed to accept up to a certainnumber of splitter modules. Such systems lack modularity and require afixed amount of space, regardless of the number of modules actuallypresent in the system. Disclosed herein are examples of stackablesplitter modules having stackable mounting features that allow themodules to be stacked together and interconnected without additionalhardware. The stackable splitter modules do not require a pre-existing,traditional framework, and thus are fully modular and require only acertain amount of space corresponding with a desired number of modulesbeing installed. In some cases a base or mounting plate provides aninitial, stable platform for a mounting an initial splitter module.Additional adjacent splitter modules can then be stacked upon theinitial splitter module. A base can be a standalone structure, or can beintegrated into a cabinet, enclosure, pedestal, or other structure wherea stack of one or more splitter modules is desired.

Optionally, in some implementations all of the splitter modules in aparticular arrangement have identical housings and mounting features,thus providing a simpler manufacturing design and making it easy tointerchange splitter modules during installation. A single cablesplitter module design can provide a housing with one or more mountingfeatures that enables multiple cable splitter modules, having the samedesign, to be connected together, one next to another, in a modularstack. This design can provide a modularity that is adaptable tomultiple different configurations of splitter modules. Accordingly, onepossible benefit is that complex mounting hardware is unneeded.

In some cases mounting features may include multiple rigid interlockingwalls and relief areas on adjacent modules that advantageously restrictmovement of the splitter modules to a single direction or axis. Someimplementations may include one or more connection members havingmounting features. For example, in some cases a splitter module may haveone connection member that engages a single connection member on anadjacent splitter module. In another example, in some cases fourconnection members, each including interlocking walls and relief areas,are provided on each splitter module.

In some cases connection members include mounting features such as slotsthat accept tabs of an adjacent splitter module. The tabs and slotsprovide a method of interconnection that enables the creation of a stackof any number of splitter modules, subject to space limitations. Forexample, an implementation includes a module with four tabs that arereceived in four slots of an adjacent module.

In some implementations the interlocking features restrict movement ofadjacent splitter modules along a stacking axis and a width axis, butmay allow some movement along a longitudinal axis. In some cases only asingle additional point of contact is needed to further restrictmovement along the axis of movement. For example, some embodimentsinclude a single latch point for engaging adjacent splitter modules. Asingle engagement point can be advantageous in some cases in that itallows manual engagement and disengagement of adjacent modules with onlyone hand, rather than needing two hands to simultaneously engage ordisengage multiple latch points.

In some cases a latching mechanism inhibits relative movement betweenadjacent splitter modules without necessarily locking the modulestogether. For example, a flexible latch tab on the end of a module canhold the module relative to another adjacent module, while the slidingengagement of wall members, incorporating slots and tabs with adjacentwall members, restricts movement in other directions. In some cases thelatching mechanism may also lock, or a separate locking mechanism isprovided to separately lock movement of adjacent splitter modules.

In some cases a splitter housing having a modular design provides anenclosure for an optical splitter assembly. Flexible fiber leads can beincluded with the module to put the splitter assembly in communicationwith cable adapters provided on the housing. The cable adapters can beused to mate with fiber connectors and put the splitters incommunication with external fibers. The splitter housing can beconfigured for installation indoors in a secure area or outdoors whenenclosed within a secure and weathertight enclosure. In some examples,the splitter housing itself can be weathertight. For example, the cableadapters can be hardened and configured to mate with hardenedconnectors. Weathertight splitter housings can be configured forinstallation indoors in unsecured areas or outdoors on walls, poles,pedestals, vaults, or other locations absent a weatherproof enclosurefor installing modules.

In some cases a splitter housing having a modular design provides anenclosure for an optical splitter assembly. Flexible fiber leads can beincluded with the module to put the splitter assembly in communicationwith more rugged cable assemblies that extend to the exterior of thehousing. The rugged cable assemblies can include adaptors for matingwith corresponding connectors. The adaptors can be configured to put thesplitters in communication with external fibers. The splitter housingcan also include a splice storage area for housing splice connectionsbetween the flexible fiber leads and rugged cable assemblies. Thesplitter housing can also provide a strain-relieving structure forprotecting the rugged cable assemblies from damage due to pulling ortwisting. The splitter housing can be configured for installationindoors in a secure area or outdoors when enclosed within a secure andweathertight enclosure. In some examples, the splitter housing can beweathertight. For example, the rugged cable assemblies and cableadapters can be hardened and configured to mate with hardenedconnectors. Weathertight splitter housings can be configured forinstallation indoors in unsecured areas our outdoors on walls, poles,pedestals, vaults, or other locations absent a weatherproof enclosurefor installing modules.

An optical splitter module is generally a structure including opticalfiber hardware. Such a splitter module can be used where a fiber opticcassette, module, tray, or other discrete structure is used in anoptical fiber network. According to some implementations describedherein, a splitter module is configured to be arranged in a stack orother array with other like splitter modules, and may thus be referredto as a stackable splitter module. A stackable splitter module isgenerally configured to connect with other stackable splitter modules toform a self-supporting stack or array of splitter modules without atraditional frame or other external support, apart from a base, mountingplate, or other initial mounting area.

A stackable splitter module generally includes a structure forconnecting to another object, such as one or more adjacent stackablesplitter modules. A stackable splitter module can be connectable toadjacent instances of like or identical stackable splitter modules. Astackable splitter module can be connectible such that it can form astack of connected stackable splitter modules along a stacking axis. Asplitter module can have such a modular connectivity by way of aconnection structure configured to connect to adjacent connectionstructures on adjacent splitter modules. Such a connection structure caninclude one or more regions of a splitter module that directly connectto other splitter modules without requiring an external frame orsupport. In some embodiments, the connection structure of a splittermodule is configured to removably couple adjacent splitter modules. Theconnection structure can form a rigid connection between adjacentsplitter modules and form a rigid stack of one or more splitter modules.The connection structure can be configured to couple a splitter moduleto a terminal, base plate, or other structure configured to receive asplitter module. As will be discussed, in some implementations theconnection structure includes one or more connection members.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, first and second perspective views areshown of a splitter module 100 in accordance with various embodimentsherein. The splitter module 100 can include one or more connectionmembers 108 that compose some or all of the connection structure of asplitter module 100. The connection members 108 are configured to couplewith one or more adjacent splitter modules or another structure. Aconnection member 108 can include a structure for receiving a connectionmember of an adjacent splitter module. The connection member 108 canalso include a structure configured to be received by the connectionmember of an adjacent splitter module. In some cases the connectionmember 108 can be configured to be received by an adjacent mountingstructure. The connection member 108 can be configured to receive anadjacent mounting structure.

The splitter module 100 is depicted along with a reference coordinatesystem including a stacking axis s, a longitudinal axis l, and a widthaxis w. The splitter module 100 can define a housing 102. The housing102 can have a length L extending along the longitudinal axis l. Thesplitter module 100 can have a width W extending transverse to thelongitudinal axis l and along the width axis w. The stacking axis isperpendicular to the longitudinal axis l and perpendicular to the widthaxis w.

The connection members 108 can be configured to couple to the connectionmembers of adjacent splitter modules such that side-to-side movement ofthe cable splitter module and the adjacent cable splitter module in adirection of the width axis w is restricted. The connection members 108can be configured to couple to the connection members of adjacentsplitter modules such that relative vertical movement of the cablesplitter module and the adjacent cable splitter module along thestacking axis s is restricted. In some cases, the connection members areconfigured to fully restrain adjacent splitter modules from movingrelative to each other. In some implementations, the connection membersare configured to partially restrain adjacent splitter modules frommoving relative to each other. FIG. 3 shows an exemplary stack ofsplitter modules 100 having relative motion at least partiallyrestricted by the connection members 108 such as those described herein.

In some implementations, a splitter module includes a latchingmechanism. A latching mechanism can be included on a splitter module toremove one or more degrees of freedom between a splitter module andstructure connected thereto, such as an adjacent splitter module. Insome embodiments, the latching mechanism removes one degree of freedom.In some embodiments, the latching mechanism acts with the connectionmembers to fully constrain a splitter module and a structure connectedthereto.

Referring again to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the splitter module 100 includes onepossible example of an optional latching mechanism 140. The latchingmechanism 140 is employed to remove translational freedom between thesplitter module 100 and another structure in a longitudinal directionparallel to the longitudinal axis 1. In some implementations, thelatching mechanism 140 is at the second end of the housing 166 as shownin FIGS. 1A-1B. Other locations for the latching mechanism 140 are alsopossible, including at the first end 162 of the housing. Various aspectsof latching mechanisms will be discussed further herein.

Implementations of stackable splitters as discussed herein include ahousing that defines a top planar wall and a bottom planar wall. A topplanar wall can be parallel to and opposite a bottom planar wall. A topplanar wall and a bottom planar wall can define top and bottom surfacesof a splitter module. Components housed or otherwise carried by asplitter module, such as an optical splitter, can be located between atop planar wall and a bottom planar wall. A storage area can be definedbetween a top planar wall and a bottom planar wall. The housing of asplitter module can also define a first end wall at a first end and asecond end wall at a second end, which may be opposite the first end ofthe housing. The housing of a splitter module can define a first sidewall at a first side. The housing of a splitter module can define asecond side wall at a second side. The second side of a housing can beopposite the first side of the housing.

FIGS. 1A and 1B depict the stackable splitter module 100 having ahousing 102 defining a top planar wall 114 and a bottom planar wall 116.The top planar wall 114 is parallel to and opposite the bottom planarwall 116. A storage area is defined between the top planar wall 114 andthe bottom planar wall 116. The housing 102 further defines a first endwall 160 at a first end 162 and a second end wall 164 at a second end166 opposite the first end 162 of the housing 102. The housing 102 ofthe splitter module 100 defines a first side wall 168 at a first side170 and a second side wall 172 at a second side 174 opposite the firstside 170 of the housing 102.

In some implementations, a stackable splitter module includes aplurality of connection members. The connection members can be arrangedin a variety of manners. In some cases multiple connection members arearranged on the first side of a housing as first side connectionmembers. A plurality of connection members can also be arranged on thesecond side of the housing as second side connection members. In somecases, a housing includes two first side connection members at the firstside. In some cases, a housing includes two second side connectionmember at the second side. In some cases, a housing includes a firstside connection member and a corresponding second side connectionmember, the first side connection member and the second side connectionmember forming a first connection member pair. In some cases, a housingincludes a second connection member pair, the second connection memberpair including a first connection member and a corresponding secondconnection member. In some cases, a housing includes more than twoconnection member pairs, each connection member pair including a firstconnection member and a second connection member.

As shown in FIGS. 1A-1B, in the depicted implementation the housing 102has a plurality of connection members 108 that are arranged as firstside connection members 128 and second side connection members 138. Thehousing 102 includes two first side connection members 128 at the firstside 170. The housing 102 also includes two second side connectionmembers 138 at the second side 174. The housing 102 includes a firstside connection member 128 and a corresponding second side connectionmember 138, the first side connection member 128 and the second sideconnection member 138 forming a first connection member pair. Thehousing 102 also includes a second connection member pair, the secondconnection member pair including a first connection member 128 and asecond connection member 138.

According to some implementations, a stackable splitter housing caninclude multiple connection members that make up a linear arrangement offirst side connection members and a linear arrangement of second sideconnection members. In some cases, the first side of a housing is afirst side wall having a linear arrangement of first side connectionmembers. In some cases, the second side of a housing is a second sidewall having a linear arrangement of second side connection members. Insome cases, a second end of a housing defines a third side wall with acable port providing access to an optical splitter storage area. In somecases, a first end of a housing defines a fourth side wall having amultiple cable ports providing access to the optical splitter storagearea.

According to the example in FIGS. 1A-1B, the housing 102 includes aplurality of connection members 108 comprising a linear arrangement offirst side connection members 128 and a linear arrangement of secondside connection members 138. In the housing 102 of the splitter module100 depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the first side 170 is a first side wallcomprising a linear arrangement of first side connection members 128.The second side 174 is a second side wall comprising a lineararrangement of second side connection members 138. The second end 166defines a third side wall comprising a cable port 104 providing accessto the optical splitter storage area provided by the housing 102. Thefirst end 162 defines a fourth side wall comprising a plurality of cableports 104 providing access to the optical splitter storage area.

In some implementations a splitter module can include one or more cableports for receiving communication cables, such as optical fiber cablesor electrical transmission cables. Cable ports generally provide accessto the interior of a splitter module. A cable port can be a passagethrough one or more walls of a splitter module. Cable ports can receiveinput or output cables. Cable ports can have cable adapters mountedthere-within. Cable adapters can be configured to receive communicationcables. Cable adapters can be configured to receive connectorizedcommunication cables. Various types of adapters can be used, as will bedescribed further below herein.

The splitter module 100 in FIGS. 1A-1B includes a plurality of ports 104for receiving communication cables. The ports 104 provide access to theinterior of the splitter module 100. The ports 104 are passages throughthe end walls of the housing 102 of the splitter module 100. The cableports 104 can receive input or output cables. The cable ports 104 havecable adapters 106 mounted there-within. The cable adapters 106 areconfigured to receive communication cables, such as connectorizedcommunication cables.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a top view is shown of the interior of thesplitter module 100 in accordance with various implementations. Asdepicted, the splitter module 100 defines an optical splitter storagearea 200. An optical splitter storage area is generally a regionconfigured to contain various communication components, which will bedescribed further herein below. In the exemplary splitter module 100depicted in FIG. 2, an optical splitter assembly 202 is positionedwithin the optical splitter storage area 200.

An optical splitter assembly can be connected to a plurality of leads.Leads are generally segments of communication cable, such as opticalfiber cable. Leads can be connected one or more cable adapters mountedin the one or more cable ports. Each cable port present on a splittermodule can provide access to one of the fiber leads. Fiber leads can beterminated inside a splitter module housing by an optical fiberconnection member configured to connect with a cable adapter.Alternatively, fiber leads can be terminated outside the housing of asplitter module by ruggedized cables.

Referring to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2, the optical splitter assembly 202 isconnected to a plurality of leads 204. The leads 204 include be segmentsof communication cable. The plurality of leads are connected to thecable adapters 106 mounted in the cable ports 104. Each of the cableports 104 provides access to one of the fiber leads 204. Each of thefiber leads 204 is terminated inside the housing 102 by an optical fiberconnection member configured to connect with one of the cable adapters106.

In other implementations fiber leads are terminated outside a splitterhousing by way of cable assemblies. Each cable assembly can be connectedto a fiber leads. Each cable assembly can extend outside the housingthrough one of the cable ports. Each cable assembly can be terminatedoutside the housing by an optical fiber connection member. In somecases, a cable splitter module includes an optical splitter assemblypositioned within the optical splitter storage area, a plurality offiber leads connected to the optical splitter assembly, and a pluralityof cable assemblies, wherein each cable assembly is connected to one ofthe fiber leads, wherein each cable assembly extends outside the housingthrough one of the cable ports, and wherein each cable assembly isterminated outside the housing by an optical fiber connection member.Examples including cable assemblies will be discussed further herein.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a stack of connected splitter modulesin accordance with various implementations. The splitter modules can beconsistent with those described above with reference to FIGS. 1A-2. Thesplitter modules shown in FIG. 3 are configured as a vertical stack. Thesplitter modules are stacked vertically along a stacking axis s.specifically, a bottom splitter module 301 is coupled to a middlesplitter module 302. The middle splitter module 302 is coupled to thebottom splitter module 301 and to a top splitter module 303.

In some cases stackable splitter modules can be configured such thatrelative motion between splitter modules is restricted when configuredas a stack. In some cases, a splitter module has zero degrees of freedomwhen in a stacked configuration. In some cases, relative motion betweensplitter modules is restricted by connection members. In some cases,relative motion between splitter modules is restricted by one or morelatching mechanism. In some cases, splitter modules can be assembledinto a stack without requiring tools.

Turning back to FIG. 3, the splitter modules 301, 302, 303 are coupledto each other by way of connection members 108. The splitter modules canbe further coupled by way of latching mechanisms 140. In theconfiguration depicted by FIG. 3, the connection members 108 of the topsplitter module 303 are received by the connection members 108 of themiddle splitter module 302. The connection members 108 of the middlesplitter module 302 are received by the connection members of the bottomsplitter module 301.

As described above, in some cases a connection member is configured tocouple to adjacent connection members of adjacent splitter modules. Insome implementations, a connection member of a first splitter module isconfigured to couple to the connection member of an adjacent splittermodule positioned above the first splitter module. In such cases, thefirst splitter module is in a second connection configuration. In somecases the connection member of a first splitter module is configured tocouple to the connection member of an adjacent splitter modulepositioned below the first splitter module. In such cases, the firstsplitter module is in a first connection configuration. In some cases aconnection member of a first splitter module is configured to couple tothe connection member of an adjacent splitter module positioned abovethe first splitter module and to the connection member of an adjacentsplitter module positioned below the first splitter module. The stack ofsplitter modules 301, 302, 303 shown in FIG. 3 exemplifies at least somesuch configurations.

In some cases a connection member can define an interlocking structurewith one or more adjacent connection members. A connection member caninclude structure to engage with structure of adjacent connectionmembers by overlapping or by the fitting together of the structures. Aconnection member can include projections and recesses, the projectionsconfigured to engage the recesses of adjacent modules or of anothermounting structure. A connection member can define feet configured toconnect to adjacent splitter modules or another coupling structure. Aconnection member can include a tab and a slot, the tab configured toengage the slot of an adjacent connection member of an adjacent splittermodule.

Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, partial perspective views of thesplitter module 100 are depicted. FIG. 4 shows a corner of the splittermodule 100 from a top perspective view and depicts one of the connectionmembers 108. FIG. 5 shows a bottom perspective view of the splittermodule 100, and depicts another view of the connection member 108. Theconnection member 108 can have a rigid wall member 400. The rigid wallmember 400 has a first end 402 and a second end 404. In some cases, thefirst end 402 of the rigid wall member 400 of the connection member 108is configured to mate with the second end of the rigid wall member of anadjacent connection member. In some such implementations, the first endof the rigid wall member of the adjacent connection member is configuredto mate with the second end of the rigid wall member of the connectionmember. Mating of the ends of the rigid wall members supports thestacking of the cable splitter module and the adjacent cable splittermodule along the stacking axis.

The first end 402 can include one or more tabs 500. The tabs 500 projectfrom the rigid wall member 400. The second end 404 can include a slot406. The slot 406 extends substantially parallel to the longitudinalaxis l of the housing. The tabs 500 of the connection member 108 areconfigured to engage a slot of an adjacent splitter module. In someembodiments, the tabs 500 are configured to slidingly engage the slot ofan adjacent splitter module. The slot 406 of the connection member 108is configured to engage the one or more tabs of an adjacent splittermodule. In some embodiments, the slot 406 is configured to slidinglyengage the one or more tabs of an adjacent splitter module. Theconnection member 108 can include an outer wall member 408 that formspart of the slot 406. The outer wall member 408 can define one or morenotches 410. The notches 410 can be configured to selectively receive atab of an adjacent connection member. The notches 410 can provide apassage for the tabs 500 to access the slot 406.

Adjacent connection members of adjacent splitter modules can beslidingly engaged by inserting a tab on each connection member on thefirst optical splitter module into a slot of each connection member onthe second optical splitter module. Once inserted, the sliding of eachtab within each respective slot is performed. The sliding can occurparallel to the linear arrangements of first side and second sideconnection members. Such sliding of first and second optical splittermodules slidingly engages the modules into a stacked arrangement.

The splitter module 100 partially depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5 has aconnection member 108 including an outer wall member 408 that definestwo notches 410, although various implementations consistent with thetechnology disclosed herein can include one notch or greater than twonotches. Similarly, the splitter module 100 depicted in FIGS. 4-5 has aconnection member 108 including a rigid wall member 400 defining twotabs, although various implementations consistent with the technologydisclosed herein can include one tab or more than two tabs. In somecases the number of notches defined by a connection member is equal tothe number of tabs defined by the connection member.

The tabs 500, the outer wall member 408, and the rigid wall 400 areconfigured to provide an interlocking structure. FIGS. 6A-6C showschematic side views illustrating certain steps for connecting adjacentsplitter modules via sliding engagement of adjacent connection members.Shown are a top splitter module 203 and a bottom splitter module 201coupling to form a stack of two splitter modules. The splitter modules100 are modular and can thus form stacks of greater than two splittermodules. The top splitter module 203 can couple to an adjacent splittermodule there-above. Similarly, the bottom splitter module 201 can coupleto an adjacent splitter module there-below. In some cases, stacks ofadjacent splitter modules are composed of modules having substantiallyidentical housings. In some cases, stacks of adjacent splitter modulesare formed by modules having compatible connection members or otherconnecting structures. Thus the number of splitter modules in a stackconsistent with the technology herein is not limited. The modularity ofthe splitter modules enables users to provide stacks of modules using aparticular number of modules that is suitable for a particular use.

FIG. 6A shows a top splitter module 203 and a bottom splitter module201. The top splitter module 203 and the bottom splitter module 201 arepositioned such that the notches 410 of the bottom splitter module 201are aligned with the tabs 500 of the top splitter module 203. Thenotches 410 of the top splitter module 203 can be inserted into theslots 406 by downwardly moving the notches 410 through the notches 410.

FIG. 6B shows the top splitter module 203 partially coupled to thebottom splitter module 201. The tabs 500 of the top splitter module 203are inserted into the slots 406 of the bottom module 201. The connectionmembers 108 of the top splitter module 203 are partially engaged withthe connection members 108 of the bottom splitter module 201 in thisstate. In this state, relative transverse or lateral motion between thetop splitter module 203 and the bottom splitter module 201 isrestricted, but the modules are not fully constrained. The top module203 and bottom module 201 can be fully engaged or interlocked byslidingly moving the top module 203 in a longitudinal direction parallelto the linear arrangements of connection members (depicted by thearrows).

FIG. 6C shows the top splitter module 203 coupled to the bottom splittermodule 201. The tabs 500 of the top splitter module 203 are insertedinto the slots 406 of the bottom module. The connection members 108 ofthe top splitter module 203 are engaged with the connection members 108of the bottom splitter module 201 in this configuration. In thisconfiguration, the tabs 500 of the top splitter module are constrainedby the connecting member 108 of the bottom splitter module 201. Relativemotion between the top splitter module 203 and the bottom splittermodule 201 is restricted. In some implementations, relative side-to-sidemovement between the top splitter module 203 and the bottom splittermodule 201 in a direction of a width axis is restricted. In someembodiments, relative vertical movement of the top splitter module 203and the bottom splitter module 201 along the stacking axis s isrestricted. The coupling structures of the top splitter module 203 andthe bottom splitter module 201 can provide zero degrees of freedom, onedegree of freedom, or more than one degree of freedom. In some cases,the coupling structures of adjacent modules allow at least somelongitudinal translation between the modules, and a latching mechanismis employed to fully constrain adjacent modules.

FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of the splitter module 100illustrating a latching mechanism 700 in accordance with someimplementations for coupling to adjacent splitter modules. As describedabove with reference to FIGS. 6A-6C, adjacent splitter modules can beassembled by engaging adjacent coupling members, but in some cases, thisleaves adjacent splitter module with at least one degree of freedom in alongitudinal direction. The latching mechanism 700 can be configured toremove this one or more degrees of freedom and fully constrain adjacentsplitter modules. The latching mechanism 140 is configured to removablyengage an adjacent latching mechanism of an adjacent splitter module.Engagement of adjacent latching mechanisms stops sliding disengagementof the cable splitter module 100 and an adjacent cable splitter module.The latching mechanism 140 can be configured to removable engage asecond adjacent splitter module.

In some cases a latching mechanism is a structure that provides asnap-fit connection with an adjacent splitter module. The latchingmechanism 140 shown in FIG. 7 is an example of a snap-fit latchingmechanism. The locking mechanism 140 includes a latch tab 702. The latchtab 702 defines a protrusion 706. The latching mechanism has a striketab 704. The latch tab 702 is spaced apart from the strike tab 704. Thelatch tab 702 is configured to slidingly and removably engage the striketab of a corresponding latching mechanism on an adjacent splittermodule. The strike tab 704 is configured to slidingly and removablyengage the latch tab of a corresponding latching mechanism on anadjacent splitter module.

In some implementations, a latching mechanism further provides astructure for locking adjacent splitter modules together. A lockingmechanism can be configured to selectively lock the latching mechanismto prevent disengagement of a cable splitter module from an adjacentcable splitter module. Such locking functionality can be implemented toprevent unauthorized de-coupling of adjacent splitter modules. Thesplitter module 100 in FIG. 7 includes features corresponding to oneexample of a locking mechanism. As is shown, the latching mechanism 140includes passages 708. The passages 708 are configured to accept alocking mechanism, as will be described further herein.

FIGS. 8A-8C are cross-sectional side views of some steps for latchingadjacent splitter modules according to an example. The adjacent splittermodules are a top splitter module 203 and a bottom splitter module 201.With reference to each other, the latching mechanism 140 of the topsplitter module 203 and the latching mechanism of the bottom splittermodule 201 are adjacent instances of a latching mechanism. The latchingmechanism 140 of the top splitter module 203 is configured to removablyengage the latching mechanism 140 of the bottom splitter module 201. Thelatching mechanism 140 of the top splitter module 203 is furtherconfigured to removably engage the latching mechanism of an adjacentsplitter module above the top splitter module 203 (not shown in FIGS.8A-8C). The latching mechanism 140 of the bottom splitter module 201 isconfigured to removably engage the latching mechanism 140 of the topsplitter module 203. The latching mechanism 140 of the bottom splittermodule 201 is further configured to removably engage the latchingmechanism of an adjacent splitter module below the bottom splittermodule 201 (not shown in FIGS. 8A-8C).

FIG. 8A shows the latching mechanism 140 of the top splitter module 203and the latching mechanism 140 of the bottom splitter module 201 in adisengaged configuration. The top splitter module 203 and the bottomsplitter module 201 are longitudinally offset. In such a configuration,the connection members of the top splitter module 203 and bottomsplitter module 201 are not fully engaged. The protrusion 706 can fit atleast partially within a passage 708 so that the latch tab 702 isrelaxed in this initial configuration. The top splitter module 203 andthe bottom splitter module 201 can be engaged by sliding one splittermodule relative to the other in a direction parallel to the longitudinalaxis of the splitter modules (shown by the arrow). An angled surface 800on the protrusion 706 can urge the protrusion 706 out of the passage 708and away from the strike tab 704 as sliding occurs.

FIG. 8B shows the top splitter module 203 as it is slid in alongitudinal direction with respect to the bottom splitter module 201.The latch tab 702 of the bottom splitter module 201 is flexible anddeflects as the top splitter module 203 is slid. The deflection of thebottom latch tab enables the protrusion 706 of the bottom splittermodule 201 to clear the strike tab of the top splitter module 203. Thelatch tab 702 is resilient, and is configured to resiliently engage withthe strike tab 704.

FIG. 8C shows the latching mechanism 140 of the top splitter module 203and the latching mechanism 140 of the bottom splitter module 201 in anengaged configuration. The top splitter module 203 and the bottomsplitter module 201 are longitudinally aligned. In such a configuration,the connection members of the top splitter module 203 and bottomsplitter module 201 are fully engaged. The protrusion 706 of the bottomsplitter module 201 is engaged with the strike tab 704 of the topsplitter module 203.

In the engaged configuration, the latching mechanism 140 of the topsplitter module 203 and the latching mechanism 140 of the bottomsplitter module 201 substantially restrict relative motion between thetop splitter module 203 and the bottom splitter module 201. The latchingmechanisms can be disengaged by resiliently flexing the latch tab 702away from the strike tab 706 and contemporaneously sliding the splittermodules away from each other longitudinally. In some cases, disengagingthe latching mechanisms can be performed manually without tools. Inaddition, in some cases the latching mechanisms can be disengagedmanually with a single hand, thus making it easier for a technician todisengage adjacent splitter modules at a single point of contact, ratherthan requiring disengagement at two or more points of contact.

The passages 708 of the top and bottom latching mechanisms 140 arealigned when the latching mechanisms 140 are engaged. The passages 708can receive a locking mechanism. For example, in some implementations alocking mechanism can include a key configured to be inserted throughthe passages 708 to prohibit the disengagement of the latchingmechanisms 140. Such a locking mechanism can thus prevent the slidingdisengagement of adjacent splitter modules.

In some implementations of a stackable splitter module, a base ormounting plate is provided and configured to receive and couple to afirst splitter module. A base can be used to provide a stable platformfor a stack of one or more splitter modules. A base can be a standalonestructure, or can be integrated into a cabinet, enclosure, pedestal, orother structure where a stack of one or more splitter modules isdesired. A base can be defined by recesses on any internal surface of anenclosure. In some embodiments, a base plate is configured to receivemore than one stacks of one or more splitter modules.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a top view is shown of a splitter module base900 in accordance with various implementations. The base 900 can beconfigured to slidingly engage with a splitter module. The base 900 isconfigured to receive the connection structure of a splitter module. Thebase 900 can be configured to receive and couple to one or moreconnection members of a splitter module. The base 900 can includeconnection receptacles 902. The connection receptacles 902 can berecesses defined by the base 900. Each connection receptacle 902 isconfigured to accept a connection member of a splitter module. Theconnection receptacles 902 can define a structure similar to thereceiving structure defined by the connection members of splittermodules consistent with those described above with reference to thevarious connection members 108. Each connection receptacle 902 can forma rigid connection with an adjacent splitter modules and provide a basefor a rigid stack of one or more splitter modules.

The connection receptacles 902 can be configured to couple to theconnection members of one or more splitter modules such thatside-to-side movement of the attached one or more splitter module on thebase 900 in direction of a width axis is restricted. The connectionreceptacles 902 can be configured to couple to the connection members ofone or more adjacent splitter modules such that relative verticalmovement of the attached one or more splitter module on the base 900 ina stacking axis is restricted. In some embodiments, the connectionreceptacles 902 are configured to fully restrain splitter modules frommoving relative to the base 900. In some embodiments, the connectionreceptacles 902 are configured to partially restrain splitter modulesfrom moving relative to the base 900.

Each connection receptacle 902 can define an interlocking structure withone or more splitter module connection members, such as the variousconnection members 108 discussed herein. Each connection receptacle 902can include structure to engage with structure of splitter moduleconnection members by overlapping or by the fitting together of thestructures. Each connection receptacle 902 can include recessesconfigured to engage the tabs of splitter modules.

The connection receptacles 902 can each define a slot 906. The slot 906extends substantially parallel to a length of the base 900. The slot 906is configured to engage the tabs of a splitter module connection member.In some embodiments, the slot 906 is configured to slidingly engage thetabs of a splitter module connection member. The base 900 can include alip 908. The lip can define one or more notches 910. The notches 910 canbe configured to selectively receive a tab of a splitter moduleconnection member. The notches 910 provide a passage for the tabs of asplitter module connection member to access the slot 906. The tabs of asplitter module can be inserted into the slots 906 by passing throughthe notches 910. The tabs of a splitter module can be slidingly engagedwith the slots 906. Splitter module connection members can be slidinglyengaged with connection receptacles 902 by inserting a tab of eachconnection member on the splitter module into a slot 906 of eachconnection receptacle 902. Once inserted, the sliding of each tab withineach respect slot is performed. The sliding occurs parallel to each slot906. Such sliding of splitter modules slidingly engages the module intoa coupled arrangement.

The base 900 depicted in FIG. 9 has a connection receptacle 902 having alip 908 that defines two notches 910, although various embodimentsconsistent with the technology disclosed herein can include one notch orgreater than two notches. Similarly, many of the various splitter moduleconnection members depicted herein include two tabs, although variousembodiments consistent with the technology disclosed herein can includeone tab or more than two tabs. In some embodiments, the number ofnotches 910 defined by a connection receptacle 902 is equal to thenumber of tabs defined by connection member.

The base 900 can include a latching mechanism 920 for coupling tosplitter modules. The latching mechanism 920 is configured to restrain asplitter module coupled to the base 900. The latching mechanism 920 isconfigured to remove one or more degrees of freedom and fully constrainsplitter modules that are engaged with the base 900. The latchingmechanism 920 is configured to removably engage an adjacent latchingmechanism of a splitter module. Engagement of adjacent latchingmechanisms stops sliding disengagement of a cable splitter module thebase 900.

A latching mechanism can be a structure for providing a snap-fitconnection with an adjacent splitter module. The latching mechanism 920shown in FIG. 9 shows an example of a snap-fit latching mechanism. Thelocking mechanism 920 includes a latch tab 922. The latch tab 922defines a protrusion 924. The latch tab 922 is configured to slidinglyand removably engage the strike tab of a corresponding latchingmechanism on an adjacent splitter module. In some embodiments, thelatching mechanism 920 further provides a structure for locking asplitter modules to the base 900 in an engaged configuration. A lockingmechanism can be configured to selectively lock the latching mechanismto prevent disengagement of a cable splitter module from a base 900.Such locking functionality can be implemented to prevent unauthorizedde-coupling of one or more splitter modules.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a perspective view is shown of a splittermodule enclosing system 1000 in accordance with various implementations.An enclosing system is a system for housing one or more splittermodules. The enclosing system 1000 can include a stack of splittermodules 100. The enclosing system can include more than one stack ofsplitter modules 100. The enclosing system can be mounted on a wall,pedestal, vault, or other location in a network. An enclosing systemgenerally provides a housing for splitter modules that requireprotection from tampering, a harsh or outdoor ambient environment, andthe like. In some implementations the enclosing system 1000 can beconfigured as an aerial terminal.

The enclosing system includes an enclosure 1002. The enclosure 1002 caninclude on or more bases 900 for coupling to a splitter module. Eachbase 900 can be configured to couple to a stack of splitter modules. Anenclosure can have a certain number of bases to accept a certain numberof splitter module stacks. Each base 900 can be consistent with thosedescribed above with reference to FIG. 9. In some cases, one or morebases are integral to an enclosure. In some cases, one or more bases area part of another component housed by an enclosure.

In some implementations, the enclosure 1002 is a hardened enclosure. Ahardened enclosure provides a weatherproof and tamperproof housing formounting in unsecured areas or outdoors. A hardened enclosure providesan interior environment that is separated from an ambient environment.In some implementations, the enclosure 1002 is not a hardened enclosure.In such cases, the enclosure can be mounted in secured areas such asnetwork rooms and the like.

Connector Types

The splitter modules disclosed herein can be implemented with a varietyof interfaces between the interior and exterior of the splitter module.Generally, the cable ports of a splitter module provide communicationcables with access to the interior of the splitter modules. In variousembodiments, cable adapters are used to interface communication cablesexternal to a splitter module with the components inside the module.Splitter modules can, for example, use hardened or non-hardened adaptersto interface with communication cables.

The example splitter module 100 depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B includesnon-hardened optical fiber cable adapters 106. However, the technologydisclosed with reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B is not intended to belimited to embodiments having non-hardened optical fiber cable adapters.The adapters 106 depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B are configured to receivean optical fiber cable and couple thereto. The adapters 106 can receiveconnectorized optical fiber cables. The non-hardened adapters 106 areconfigured to connect with a non-hardened optical fiber connectorcoupled to an optical fiber cable. In some implementations thenon-hardened cable adapters 106 are configured as standard SC (e.g.,Subscriber Connector) adapters. One example of an SC configuration istaught in U.S. Pat. No. 8,439,577, the entire content of which isincorporated herein by reference. Other examples of non-hardened cableadapter configurations that may be implemented include, but are notlimited to LC, FC, ST, and MPO configurations. The cable adapters 106may implement any desirable polish type for the included fiber(s),including but not limited to polish types such as PC, UPC, and APC.

Referring now to FIG. 11, a top view is shown of a hardened splittermodule 100 in accordance with various implementations. The hardenedsplitter module 100 has a stackable structure and function consistentwith the various splitter modules discussed herein. As such, thesplitter module 100 has a housing 102, a plurality of connection members108, and a plurality of cable ports 104 consistent with those describedherein. Hardened splitter modules are configured for use in harsh orother environments where tampering or unintended damage to the splitterand the components contained therein must be avoided. Hardened splittermodules can be configured for installation indoors in unsecure areas,where extra physical strength is required to prevent unintended damage.Hardened splitter modules can be configured for installation outdoors,such as mounted to a wall, pole, pedestal, vault, or other environmentwhere the environment inside the splitter modules must be separated fromthe ambient environment to prevent destruction or damage of thecomponents inside the splitter modules.

The hardened splitter module 100 incorporates one or more hardened cableadapters 106 for interfacing with optical fiber cables. Hardenedconnectors are configured to connect with hardened optical fiberconnectors. Hardened adapters provide a sealed connection with hardenedconnectors, and prevent communication between the interior and exteriorof a housing. Various hardened adapter configurations can be used toimplement hardened cable adapters such as adapters 106. Some examples ofhardened adapters that can be used are described in commonly-ownedInternational Application No. PCT/US2016/065643, filed Dec. 8, 2016, andin U.S. Provisional Appl. No. 62/268,372, filed Dec. 16, 2015, to whichPCT/US2016/065643 claims priority. The entire contents of theseapplications are incorporated herein by reference. As one possibleexample, in some cases the hardened cable adapters 106 can be optionallyconfigured as one of the cable adapter assemblies depicted in FIGS.16-22 and described in the corresponding text of PCT/US2016/065643.Other possible examples of hardened configurations that may optionallybe incorporated into the design of the cable adapters 106 are discussedin U.S. Pat. No. 7,744,288B2, U.S. Pat. No. 7,959,361B2, U.S. Pat. No.7,762,726B2, U.S. Pat. Publ. No. 2014/0241670A1, and U.S. Pat. No.9,063,296B2, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein byreference. Other hardened adapter configurations may also be used.

A hardened splitter module can incorporate a housing 102 that ishardened. A hardened housing is configured to separate an environmentinside the housing from an ambient environment. A hardened splittermodule can include various seals for sealingly mating various componentsof the module. A hardened splitter module can also be constructed ofstrengthened or thickened materials such that a hardened splitter moduleis physically stronger than non-hardened counterparts. Stacks of one ormore hardened splitter modules can incorporate a locking mechanism, suchas those described above, for preventing the unintended removal of oneor more splitter modules.

Referring now to FIG. 12, a top view is shown of a splitter module 100in accordance with various implementations herein. The splitter module100 has a stackable structure and function consistent with the varioussplitter modules discussed herein. The splitter module 100 has a housing102, a plurality of connection members 108, and a plurality of cableports 104 consistent with those described herein. The splitter module100 has an external cable assembly 1200. An external cable assembly isgenerally an assembly including one or more communication cablesproviding access to a splitter within a splitter module. The externalcable assembly has one or more flexible leads 1202. Each flexible lead1202 is terminated at an external optical fiber connection member 1204.The optical fiber connection members 1204 are optionally implemented asnon-hardened optical fiber cable connectors. In some cases thenon-hardened connectors 1204 are configured as standard SC (e.g.,Subscriber Connector) connectors, such as is taught in U.S. Pat. No.8,439,577, the entire content of which is incorporated herein byreference. Other examples of non-hardened cable adapter configurationsthat may be implemented include, but are not limited to LC, FC, ST, andMPO configurations. The cable adapters 106 may implement any desirablepolish type for the included fiber(s), including but not limited topolish types such as PC, UPC, and APC.

In some cases, the splitter module 100 is configured to be installedindoors in a secure area, or outdoors in a weather tight enclosure. Theflexible leads 1202 can be used to access other optical fiber componentsin an optical fiber assembly or network. The optical fiber connectionmembers 1204 are configured to connect with various optical fibercomponents in an optical fiber assembly or network. The flexible leads1202 can have a length sufficient to access various components withintheir functional environment. In some cases, flexible leads have alength less than 1 m. In some cases, flexible leads have a length of 1m. In some cases, flexible leads have a length greater than 1 m. In somecases, the flexible leads have a length of 1.5 m. In some cases, theflexible leads have a length of greater than 1.5 m.

The housing 102 can include a strain-relieving portion for relievingstrain in the one or more leads 1202. Relieving strain in the one ormore flexible leads 1202 prevents damage from pulling or twisting forcesapplied to the flexible leads 1202. Specifically, strain relief canprotect fiber leads, splitters, and other components inside the splittermodule 100 from strain or damage. In some embodiments, the optical fiberports 104 of the housing 102 are configured to clamp the leads 1202 suchthat strain is relieved or otherwise not transferred between theinterior and exterior of the housing 102.

Referring now to FIG. 13, a top view is shown of a hardened splittermodule 100 in accordance with various implementations herein. Thehardened splitter module 100 has a stackable structure and functionconsistent with the various splitter modules discussed herein. Thesplitter module 100 has a housing 102, a plurality of connection members108, and a plurality of cable ports 104 consistent with those describedherein. The hardened splitter module 100 further includes an externalcable assembly 1200. The external cable assembly has one or moreflexible leads 1202. Each flexible lead 1202 is terminated at anexternal an optical fiber connection member 1004.

The hardened splitter module 100 incorporates one or more hardenedoptical fiber connection members 1204 for interfacing with optical fibercables. The hardened optical fiber connection members 1204 can beconfigured to connect to hardened optical fiber connectors. The hardenedoptical fiber connection members 1204 can be configured to connect toother hardened or ruggedized assemblies, such as a hardened terminal.The hardened optical fiber connection members 1204 can provide a sealedconnection with connectors, and prevent communication between theinterior and exterior environments of a connection.

Some examples of hardened connector configurations that can optionallybe used for the connection members 1204 are described in commonly-ownedInternational Application No. PCT/US2016/065643, filed Dec. 8, 2016, andin U.S. Provisional Appl. No. 62/268,372, filed Dec. 16, 2015, to whichPCT/US2016/065643 claims priority. The entire contents of theseapplications are incorporated herein by reference. As one possibleexample, in some cases the hardened connection members 1204 can beoptionally configured as one of the cable connector assemblies depictedin FIGS. 6-15 and described in the corresponding text ofPCT/US2016/065643. Other possible examples of hardened configurationsthat may optionally be incorporated into the design of the connectionmembers 1204 are discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,744,288B2, U.S. Pat. No.7,959,361B2, U.S. Pat. No. 7,762,726B2, U.S. Pat. Publ. No.2014/0241670A1, and U.S. Pat. No. 9,063,296B2, the entire contents ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference. Other hardened adapterconfigurations may also be used.

The hardened splitter module 100 can incorporate a housing 102 that ishardened, consistent with the hardened housings described above withreference to FIG. 11. Each port 104 can be configured to provide strainrelief for each flexible cable lead 1002, consistent with the strainrelief described above with reference to FIG. 12. Each port 104 of thehardened splitter module 100 can be configured to sealingly engage eachflexible lead 1202 disposed therein. A cable port 104 can sealinglyengages with a flexible lead 1202 such that a weatherproof, waterproof,or other connection can be formed. Such sealed connections preventcommunication between the interior environment of a splitter module andan ambient environment.

One or more hardened splitter modules can be employed indoors inunsecured areas with or without being housed within an enclosure orcabinet. One or more hardened splitter modules can be employed outdoors,such as mounted to a wall, pole, pedestal, vault or other environmentwhere the environment inside the splitter modules must be separated fromthe ambient environment. Stacks of one or more hardened splitter modulecan incorporate a locking mechanism, such as those described above, forpreventing the unintended removal of one or more splitter modules. Thehardened splitter modules 100 can have flexible leads 1202 of varyinglengths. In some cases, the length of a flexible lead 1002 is less than10 m. In some cases, the length of a flexible lead 1202 is equal to orgreater than 10 m. In some cases, the length of a flexible lead 1202 isequal to or greater than 20 m. In some cases, the length of a flexiblelead 1202 is equal to or greater than 25 m. In some cases, the length ofa flexible lead 1202 is between 25 and 30 m. In some cases, the lengthof a flexible lead 1202 is less than 30 m. In some cases, the length ofa flexible lead 1202 is greater than 30 m.

Splitter Types

The various splitter modules disclosed herein can be used to house orotherwise carry a variety of network components. Specifically, a varietyof optical fiber communication network components can be housed by asplitter module. Splitter modules can be used to house a variety ofoptical splitting components. Splitter modules can be used to house oneor more Passive Optical Splitters (POS). Splitter modules can be used tohouse one or more Fused Biconical Taper (FBT) splitters or PlanarLightwave Circuit (PLC) splitters. The optical splitters employed in thesplitter modules can have a variety of splitting configurations. Thepossible splitting configurations can include 1×2, 1×4, 1×8, 1×16, 1×32,1×64, and other splitting configurations.

In some cases, a stack of splitter modules is composed of splittershaving identical splitting configurations. For example, a stack ofsplitter modules can be formed wherein each splitter module has a 1×2,1×4, 1×8, 1×16, 1×32, 1×64, or other splitting configuration. The use oflikes splitting configurations can prevent unequal power losses amongdifferent modules in a stack. The splitter modules can be configured toprovide a desired splitting configuration for a network system. Forexample, a stack of four splitter modules each having a 1×2 splittingconfiguration can be used to create a network system having a 1×8splitting configuration. In some implementations, stacks can includesplitters having disparate splitting configurations. Additional splittermodules can be added to increase the amount of splitting. Likewise,splitter modules can be removed to provide a network system having areduced amount of splitting. Various combinations of serial and parallelsplitting are possible using the splitter modules disclosed herein.Configuring or altering existing configurations is thus facilitated bythe modular splitter modules disclosed herein.

Locking Mechanisms

The splitter modules disclosed herein can include a locking mechanism. Alocking mechanism can be used to prevent the unintended disengagement ofa module from an adjacent module or base. Locking mechanisms can be usedin addition to or in the alternative of the various latching mechanismsdisclosed herein. Locking mechanisms can be used in applications wherestandalone stacks of one or more splitter modules exist without beinghoused in an enclosure, cabinet, room, or other secure environment.

In some implementations, a security screw is engaged between each pairof adjacent splitter modules. In some cases, a security screw is engagedbetween each module at the bottom of a stack and the one or more baseswith which each module is coupled. In some cases a single security screwmay engage all splitter modules in a stack. For example, in some cases asingle security screw may be inserted through the passages 708 of eachmodule's latching mechanism as described above with respect to FIG. 7.Security screws can include various heads requiring specialized toolsfor installation or removal. In some embodiments, security screws useheads requiring a 216 tool for installation or removal.

FIG. 14 depicts one possible implementation of a locking mechanism. FIG.14 depicts a side view of a stack of splitter modules that areconsistent with the various splitter modules described herein. Thesplitter modules 1100 each have a housing and a plurality of connectionmembers. The splitter modules 1100 include a top splitter module and abottom splitter module. Each splitter module 1100 includes a securityscrew structure 1400. A security screw structure is generally configuredto allow a splitter module to be secured to adjacent splitter modules ora mounting base located above or below the splitter module in a stack.In this example, each security screw structure 1400 includes a straightreceptacle 1402 and a threaded receptacle 1404. A security screw 1410 isinserted through the straight receptacle 1402 of the top splitter moduleand engaged with the threaded receptacle 1404 of the bottom splittermodule such that relative movement between the top splitter module andthe bottom splitter module is prohibited. Although FIG. 14 depicts astack of two splitter modules 1100, a stack having any number ofsplitter modules can be secured using security screw mechanisms.

Materials

The splitter modules disclosed herein can be constructed of a variety ofmaterials. In some cases the splitter module housing is constructed of apolymer. The splitter module housing can be constructed of a plastic.The splitter module housing can be constructed of a thermoplastic. Thesplitter module housing can be constructed of ABS, PC, PVC, nylon, PLA,PE, PP, PS, PTFE, PA, PU, and the like. The splitter module housing canbe constructed of a metal. The splitter module housing can beconstructed of a wood or wood fiber material. The splitter modulehousing can be constructed of a ceramic. Other housing materials arecontemplated, including combinations of two or more of theabove-references materials.

The various components of the splitter modules can also be constructedof the materials listed above. In some cases, the connection members ofthe splitter modules are substantially rigid. In some cases, theconnection members are constructed of the same materials as the splittermodule housing. In some cases, the connection members are integral withthe splitter module housing. In some cases, the latching mechanism isconstructed of flexible and resilient materials. The latching mechanismcan be constructed of a resilient thermoplastic. In some cases, thelatching mechanism is constructed of the same materials as the splittermodule housing. In some cases, the splitter module housing, theconnection members, and the locking mechanism are constructed of thesame material. In such cases, the rigidity and flexibility of variouscomponents can be controlled by varying material thicknesses andgeometry.

It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appendedclaims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referentsunless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example,reference to an apparatus containing “a member” includes an apparatuswith two or more members. It should also be noted that the term “or” isgenerally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the contentclearly dictates otherwise.

It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and theappended claims, the phrase “configured” describes a system, apparatus,or other structure that is constructed or configured to perform aparticular task or adopt a particular configuration. The phrase“configured” can be used interchangeably with other similar phrases suchas arranged and configured, constructed and arranged, constructed,manufactured and arranged, and the like.

All publications and patent applications in this specification areindicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which thisinvention pertains. All publications and patent applications are hereinincorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individualpublication or patent application was specifically and individuallyindicated by reference.

Aspects have been described with reference to various specific andpreferred embodiments and techniques. However, it should be understoodthat many variations and modifications may be made while remainingwithin the spirit and scope herein.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A cable splitter module, comprising: ahousing having a length extending along a longitudinal axis of thehousing, a width extending transverse to the longitudinal axis along awidth axis, and a stacking axis that is perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis and to the width axis, the housing comprising anoptical splitter storage area, a plurality of cable ports providingaccess to the optical splitter storage area for a plurality of opticalfiber cables, a first end wall at a first end of the housing, a secondend wall at a second end of the housing opposite the first end of thehousing, a first side wall at a first side of the housing, and a secondside wall at a second side of the housing opposite the first side of thehousing; and a connection member at the first side of the housing, theconnection member comprising a rigid wall member having a first end anda second end, the second end comprising a tab projecting from the wallmember and the first end comprising a notch, and a slot extendingsubstantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the housing; whereinthe connection member is configured to connect to an adjacent instanceof the connection member on an adjacent cable splitter module; whereinthe notch of the adjacent connection member is configured to providepassage for the tab of the connection member to access the slot of theadjacent connection member, and the tab of the connection member isconfigured to slidingly engage with the slot of the adjacent connectionmember in a first connection configuration that restricts relativemovement of the cable splitter module and the adjacent cable splittermodule along the stacking axis; and wherein the notch of the connectionmember is configured to provide passage for the tab of the adjacentconnection member to access the slot of the connection member, and theslot of the connection member is configured to slidingly engage with thetab of the adjacent connection member in a second connectionconfiguration that restricts relative movement of the cable splittermodule and the adjacent cable splitter module along the stacking axis;whereby the cable splitter module is connectable to the adjacentinstance of the cable splitter module to form a stack of connected cablesplitter modules along the stacking axis.
 2. The cable splitter moduleof claim 1, wherein the connection member is a first side connectionmember, and further comprising a second side connection member at thesecond side of the housing opposite from the first side connectionmember, the second side connection member comprising a rigid wall memberhaving a first end and a second end comprising a tab projecting from thewall member, and a slot extending substantially parallel to thelongitudinal axis of the housing; wherein the second side connectionmember is configured to connect to an adjacent instance of the secondside connection member on the adjacent cable splitter module; whereinthe tab of the second side connection member is configured to slidinglyengage with the slot of the adjacent second side connection member inthe first connection configuration to restrict relative movement alongthe stacking axis; and wherein the slot of the second side connectionmember is configured to slidingly engage with the tab of the adjacentsecond side connection member in the second connection configuration torestrict relative movement along the stacking axis.
 3. The cablesplitter module of claim 2, wherein the sliding engagement of the firstside connection members and the second side connection members restrictsside-to-side movement of the cable splitter module and the adjacentcable splitter module in a direction of the width axis.
 4. The cablesplitter module of claim 2, wherein each of the first and second sideconnection members comprises an outer wall member that forms part of therespective slot, the outer wall member comprising a notch configured toselectively receive the tab of the respective adjacent connectionmember.
 5. The cable splitter module of claim 2, wherein the first sideconnection member and the second side connection member form a firstconnection member pair, and further comprising a second connectionmember pair comprising another first side connection member and anothersecond side connection member.
 6. The cable splitter module of claim 1,wherein the first end of the rigid wall member of the connection memberis configured to mate with the second end of the rigid wall member ofthe adjacent connection member, and wherein the first end of the rigidwall member of the adjacent connection member is configured to mate withthe second end of the rigid wall member of the connection member,whereby mating of the ends of the rigid wall members supports thestacking of the cable splitter module and the adjacent cable splittermodule along the stacking axis.
 7. The cable splitter module of claim 1,further comprising a latching mechanism at the first end of the housing;wherein the adjacent cable splitter module has a corresponding adjacentinstance of the latching mechanism; wherein the latching mechanism isconfigured to removably engage the adjacent latching mechanism in one ofthe first connection configuration and the second connectionconfiguration; and wherein the latching mechanism is configured toremovably engage the adjacent latching mechanism in the other of thefirst connection configuration and the second connection configuration;whereby engagement of the respective latching mechanisms stops slidingdisengagement of the cable splitter module and the adjacent cablesplitter module.
 8. The cable splitter module of claim 7, furthercomprising a locking mechanism for selectively locking the latchingmechanism to prevent disengagement of the cable splitter module from theadjacent cable splitter module.
 9. The cable splitter module of claim 1,further comprising an optical splitter assembly positioned within theoptical splitter storage area, and a plurality of fiber leads connectedto the optical splitter assembly, wherein each of the cable portsprovides access to one of the fiber leads.
 10. The cable splitter moduleof claim 9, further comprising a plurality of cable assemblies, whereineach cable assembly is connected to one of the fiber leads, wherein eachcable assembly extends outside the housing through one of the cableports, and wherein each cable assembly is terminated outside the housingby an optical fiber connection member.
 11. The cable splitter module ofclaim 9, further comprising a plurality of cable adapters mounted withinthe plurality of cable ports, wherein each of the fiber leads isterminated inside the housing by an optical fiber connection memberconfigured to connect with one of the cable adapters.
 12. An opticalsplitter stacking system, comprising: an optical splitter housingcomprising a bottom planar wall and a top planar wall, an opticalsplitter storage area located between the bottom planar wall and the topplanar wall, a plurality of connection members comprising a lineararrangement of first side connection members and a linear arrangement ofsecond side connection members, a first side wall comprising the lineararrangement of first side connection members, a second side wallcomprising the linear arrangement of second side connection members, athird side wall comprising a cable port providing access to the opticalsplitter storage area, and a fourth side wall comprising a plurality ofcable ports providing access to the optical splitter storage area; and alatching mechanism at the third side wall; wherein each of the first andsecond side connection members comprises a rigid wall member having afirst end and a second end, the first end at least partially defining aslot extending along a portion of the corresponding first side wall orthe second side wall, and the second end comprising a tab projectingfrom the rigid wall member; wherein each of the connection members areconfigured to slidingly engage with corresponding connection members onan additional instance of the optical splitter housing, to form astacked arrangement of optical splitter housings; wherein the latchingmechanism is configured to removably engage an additional instance ofthe latching mechanism on the additional instance of the opticalsplitter housing to selectively stop sliding disengagement of theoptical splitter housing from the additional instance of the opticalsplitter housing; wherein the latching mechanism comprises a latch taband a strike tab spaced apart from the latch tab; wherein the latch tabis configured to slidingly and removably engage the strike tab on thecorresponding additional latching mechanism in a first connectionconfiguration; and wherein the strike tab is configured to slidingly andremovably engage the latch tab on the additional latching mechanism in asecond connection configuration.
 13. The optical splitter stackingsystem of claim 12, wherein the latch tab comprises a protrusion thatengages the strike tab of the additional latching mechanism, and whereinthe latch tab comprises a flexible material that enables deflection ofthe latch tab and the protrusion relative to the strike tab of theadditional latching mechanism.
 14. The optical splitter stacking systemof claim 12, wherein each of the connection members comprises an outerwall member that forms part of the respective slot, the outer wallmember comprising a notch configured to receive the tab of therespective additional connection member of the additional opticalsplitter housing.
 15. The optical splitter stacking system of claim 12,wherein the first end of the rigid wall member of each connection memberis configured to mate with the second end of the rigid wall member ofthe additional connection member on the additional optical splitterhousing, and wherein the first end of the rigid wall member of theadditional connection member is configured to mate with the second endof the rigid wall member of each connection member, whereby mating ofthe ends of the rigid wall members supports the stacking of the cablesplitter module and the additional cable splitter module along thestacking axis.
 16. The optical splitter stacking system of claim 12,further comprising an optical splitter assembly positioned within theoptical splitter storage area, a plurality of fiber leads connected tothe optical splitter assembly, and a plurality of cable assemblies,wherein each cable assembly is connected to one of the fiber leads,wherein each cable assembly extends outside the housing through one ofthe cable ports, and wherein each cable assembly is terminated outsidethe housing by an optical fiber connection member.
 17. The opticalsplitter stacking system of claim 12, further comprising a plurality ofcable adapters mounted within the plurality of cable ports forconnecting fiber leads of an optical splitter assembly inside thehousing.
 18. A method for arranging optical splitter modules,comprising: positioning a first optical splitter module next to a secondoptical splitter module, each of the first and second optical splittermodules comprising an enclosure housing an optical splitter assembly, aplurality of connection members comprising a linear arrangement of firstside connection members located along a first side of the enclosure anda linear arrangement of second side connection members located along asecond side of the enclosure, and a plurality of cable ports providingaccess to the optical splitter assembly for a plurality of optical fibercables; and slidingly engaging the first optical splitter module withthe second optical splitter module, the slidingly engaging comprisinginserting a tab on each connection member on the first optical splittermodule into a slot of each connection member on the second opticalsplitter module, and sliding each tab within each respect slot, thesliding occurring parallel to the linear arrangements of first side andsecond side connection members, thereby sliding the first and secondoptical splitter modules together into a stacked arrangement; andlatching the first optical splitter module to the second opticalsplitter module to selectively prevent the optical splitter modules fromsliding apart, the latching comprising engaging a single latch tab onthe first optical splitter module with a single strike tab on the secondoptical splitter module, wherein locking engagement of the single latchtab and the single strike tab is configured to lock the first and secondoptical splitter modules together in the stacked arrangement.